Part of Illinois' state park system, Sangchris Lake State Park Campground sits along the shores of a 2,164-acre lake near Rochester. The park operates two distinct camping areas: Hickory Point directly on the lake and Deer Run nestled in the woods about a mile inland.
Deer Run attracts campers seeking a more wooded experience away from the water. Sites here feature electrical hookups and clear, level spots suitable for both RVs and tents. G C. notes the campground is "well kept" with "clear level spots," though mentions that "water is in the center of the loop so not very convenient." The bathroom facilities sit at the front of each loop, requiring a walk for those staying in back sites.
Fishing draws many weekend visitors to the lake, with several reviewers noting the campground fills up with anglers during peak times. The lake itself prohibits swimming, but provides ample opportunities for shoreline fishing and wildlife observation. Campers frequently spot deer throughout both camping areas. Walking trails connect various parts of the park, though some reviewers report maintenance issues with bridges and trail conditions.
The campground maintains basic restroom facilities and shower houses, though experiences vary with cleanliness depending on timing. Showers operate on push-button timers requiring frequent activation. Camp hosts stay on-site during peak seasons and receive consistent praise for helpfulness. Primitive walk-in sites offer a quieter alternative for tent campers wanting more separation from RV areas.
For additional camping choices in the region, see campgrounds just outside Rochester. The park works well for anglers, RV travelers seeking hookups, and families wanting a straightforward state park camping experience with lake access.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundSangchris Lake State Park Campground is located in Illinois
Directions
Traveling from the south, Northbound I 55 North to Exit 82 (Route 104). Route 104 east 6.1 miles through Pawnee and turn left, north, at Sangchris Lake sign. Travel 4.5 miles to a 4-way stop, New City. Turn right at Sangchris Lake sign and travel 3 more miles. Traveling from the north, southbound I 55 South to exit 96A (Route 29). Route 29 to Rochester, IL. Turn right at the 4th stoplight, Cardinal Hill Road, at the Sangchris Lake sign. Travel south 5.5 miles to a 4-way stop, New City. Turn left at park sign and travel 3 more miles.
Address
9898 Cascade Rd
Rochester, IL 62563
Coordinates
39.65525542 N
89.48799118 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- Verizon5GExcellent Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- Verizon5GExcellent Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 17 min from Springfield, IL
- 47 min from Decatur, IL
- 1 hr 10 min from Bloomington, IL
- 1 hr 17 min from Champaign, IL














